(Thursday, May 7, 2009) Working hard to eliminate blight in Pleasant City, the West Palm Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) has demolished a former haven for criminal activity located at 544 23rd Street. The CRA purchased the property in December 2008. In the two years prior to that, West Palm Beach police responded to almost one hundred 911 at the property concerning issues ranging from assaults and illegal drugs. The demolition of this property will be a great benefit to the safety for area businesses, residents and families who enjoy the amenities of Blum Park. Townhouses and green space will replace the demolished area to add a new cleaner look and feel to Pleasant City.
“Removing this dangerous eyesore is a major step in creating a safer community,” stated West Palm Beach Mayor Lois J. Frankel. “Blight and drug activity have been prevalent issues in Pleasant City and we are committed to fully eliminating them.”

The CRA has bright and innovative plans for the future of Blum Park in Pleasant City. The removal 544 23rd Street creates a new realm of opportunity for a crime- and drug-free community. The 2008 Strategic Finance Plan for the Northwood/Pleasant City Community Redevelopment Agency District and the Pleasant City Master Plan highlight a “park vision” where new town homes will replace the demolished and blighted property. These town homes will overlook Blum Park and be a new asset to Pleasant City’s neighborhood appeal.

The City of West Palm Beach and the Community Redevelopment Agency have ambitious plans to revitalize Pleasant City. Business owners and residents alike were glad to see a detrimental and unsightly aspect of their community finally eliminated.